WHAT IS NFPA 1950?
NFPA 1950 is the new standard for personal protective equipment (PPE) that combines three previously separate standards into one: NFPA 1951 for Technical Rescue, NFPA 1999 for Emergency Medical Operations, and NFPA 1977 for Wildland and Urban Interface Firefighting. By bringing these industry standards together, NFPA 1950 simplifies certification requirements and provides a more streamlined, unified PPE standard for emergency responders.
WHAT DOES NFPA 1950 MEAN FOR WILDLAND FIREFIGHTING?
For wildland firefighting, the transition from NFPA 1977 to NFPA 1950 includes a few updates to existing PPE requirements rather than significant changes to the standard. These updates include expanded women's sizing requirements, updated collar height requirements for shirts, revised glove sizing standards, and new requirements for particulate-blocking garments.
CAN WILDLAND FIREFIGHTERS STILL USE NFPA 1977-CERTIFIED GEAR?
NFPA 1977-certified gear remains compliant for wildland firefighting use. During the transition to NFPA 1950, both NFPA 1977 and NFPA 1950 labels may appear on wildland PPE, depending on the manufacturer and certification date. While NFPA 1950 has replaced NFPA 1977 as the governing standard, previously certified NFPA 1977 gear remains compliant and approved for use.
FAQ
Is NFPA 1977-certified gear still compliant?
Yes. Existing NFPA 1977-certified gear remains compliant for wildland firefighting use. During the transition to NFPA 1950, both NFPA 1977 and NFPA 1950 labels may appear on PPE depending on when the product was certified.
Do I need to replace my current NFPA 1977-certified gear?
No. NFPA 1977-certified gear does not become non-compliant simply because NFPA 1950 has replaced the standard. As long as your gear remains in serviceable condition and has not exceeded its recommended service life of 10 years from the manufacture date, it can continue to be used. Always follow your agency's PPE requirements and replacement guidelines.
Why does some gear still have an NFPA 1977 label?
Products certified before the transition to NFPA 1950 may still carry NFPA 1977 labeling. During the transition period, both NFPA 1977 and NFPA 1950 labels may appear on wildland PPE, and products with either certification remain compliant and approved for use.
KEY TAKEAWAYS ON NFPA 1950
NFPA 1950 brings multiple PPE standards together under a single certification framework, helping simplify compliance and certification requirements moving forward. As the industry transitions to the new standard, both NFPA 1977 and NFPA 1950 labels may appear on wildland PPE. However, existing NFPA 1977-certified gear remains compliant and approved for use. If you have questions about NFPA 1950, certification requirements, or PPE compliance, our team is here to help.
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